Sweden Summons Israeli Envoy, Urges EU Sanctions Over Gaza Aid Blockade

Sweden has summoned Israel's ambassador to protest the ongoing blockade of humanitarian aid into Gaza, with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson urging the European Union to impose sanctions and increase diplomatic pressure on Israel to allow aid access. Kristersson emphasized that Sweden is working with other EU countries to apply coordinated pressure, including possible sanctions, listings of extremist individuals, and reviewing the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Other European leaders, including Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have also condemned Israel's restrictions on aid, with Merz describing recent Israeli strikes on civilian shelters as a humanitarian tragedy and political catastrophe. Spain and other EU members have joined calls for sanctions, while the UK, France, and Canada have warned of targeted sanctions if the blockade and military offensive continue. The blockade has caused severe shortages for Gaza's 2.3 million residents, with widespread malnutrition and over 53,900 Palestinians killed since October 2023 according to Gaza health authorities. The international community's growing backlash highlights increasing concern over Israel's actions and the urgent need for humanitarian relief in Gaza.